Following government announcements that export is crucial to the UK’s future growth and stability, a Local Enterprise Partnership has helped a rail industry supplier to secure funding to export products internationally.

Steve Marsh, Director at rail industry suppliers SCG Solutions Ltd, attended a Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) ‘Open Access to Finance’ event, after spotting an advert in his local newspaper.

The event was held to give local businesses the opportunity to meet leading finance providers and banks who are keen to work with business owners seeking funding.

Steve met with various high street banks, funders and consultants who specialise in arranging finance for business, and as a result of attending, he enlisted the help of f local finance firm Central Finance, who helped Stourbridge based SCG Solutions to raise the funding needed to enter the overseas export market.

“The main benefit of attending an event like this is that you’re able to make contact with many types of finance providers all at the same time,” he said.

“What Central Finance provided was an open and honest viewpoint of all the options that were available to my business. They listened to what I needed and acted on my behalf to secure the right facility for me. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to take my business forward and looking forward to working with a wider market.”

Alison Bradley, Managing Director of West Midland-based Central Finance, said: “This is exactly what we’re designed to do: offer a clear, impartial view of what’s available in the marketplace in terms of finance, and assist business owners through every step of the funding process.

“Business finance has changed over the past four years and it now requires a little more effort to secure funding, so we’re dedicated to working with businesses to help them get the help they need.  These events are an excellent way to showcase what is available in terms of finance and support. ”

The LEP has been supporting Black Country businesses over the past six months with a series of events focused on raising finance to start, grow and develop businesses.  

Paul Kalinauckas, Chief Executive of BCRS, who organised the Open Access to Finance events said: “We have pulled together a group of all the financiers operating in the Black Country to provide a comprehensive picture of what financial products are available locally in order to inform companies what they can realistically access.”

For further information on forthcoming Access to Finance events please email:events@bcrs.org.uk